Paperback Writer

Okay here's something I've never understood regarding the Buffalo Sabres. We were told after the lockout a few years ago about how the team was set up perfectly for the new rules. It was all about speed and quickness and offensive firepower. But what has this team been sorely lacking for many years? A strong defense and physical play from every member of the team.

Watch any of the playoff game that are going on now and you'll notice how physical every skater is. Yes it's the playoffs and we expect that, but could the Sabres ever survive in such an environment? Except for Paul Guastad, Adam Mair, Drew Stafford and Patrick Kaleta, no one on this team hits, and these 4 players are not striking fear into anyone anytime soon. Plus, if I have to watch Kaleta skate full speed and run somebody only to back down from every challenge to fight I'm going to vomit. As far as the blueline is concerned not much physical play there either. Overall defensive play isn't very good, your welcome Ryan Miller.

So who's fault is this? I've marveled at how Lindy Ruff, who was such a tough scrappy player, could coach such a wimpy and weak team. Even more, I've marveled at how it seems like he doesn't care either. Do I think Ruff should be fired? No not really. Do I think the Sabres would have made the playoffs if Miller stays healthy? Sure. Do I think the team could use a new face behind the bench. Perhaps.

My biggest problem is GM Darcy Regier. And it seems evident to me that Ruff & Regier are in bed together. They've both supported each other and probably hinged each other's futures on each other, and they will most likely be fired together as well. What's my advice? Regier desperately needs to find two or three tough, mean, and nasty defenseman. And it wouldn't hurt to get one who can anchor the power play. It's no easy task but it needs to be done. Buffalo has an average offense, a below average defense, and an above average goalie. Nothing will help more than stronger defensman.

Ideally, someone like Dion Phaneuf would be the ultimate pick up but that isn't happening. But a player like Mike Komisarek is exactly what the Sabres need. There's been a lot of garbage thrown at big, slow, immobile defensman since the lockout but sometimes you need them and the Sabres do. If they could sign one that can move the puck and contribute offensively, all the better. So that's a better defense and more physical play from everyone, those are the team needs going into next season. Because if I have to watch another Caruba Collision replay where the opposing player doesn't even seem to notice he was body checked...I'm also going to vomit.